Composting
Composting is a biological process of converting living and once living material into once was material. It is a recycling process that occurs in nature. It can be a controlled process which decomposes quicker. Composting can be free of unpleasant odours, handled easily and stored. Finished compost is much easier to handle than the initial raw materials and definitely for soil amendment/application.
The greatest benefit of compost is its use at any time of the year; provided it is finished and cured. Composting stabilizes nutrients in organic form requiring minerization in the soil so a good slow release fertilizer. Compost contributes nutrients over several years. This also reduces potential for environmental impact and pests common to some raw materials.
The fastest composting occurs when conditions exist for the microorganisms:
· Feed stock (organic material) in balanced mix (C:N ratio)
· Adequate oxygen and air flow
· Proper moisture content
· Suitable temperatures for active microbe activity
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Recommended conditions: |
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Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) ratio |
20:1 - 40:1 |
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Moisture content |
40-65% |
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Oxygen concentration |
>5% |
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Particle size |
.5-2" |
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Pile porosity |
>40% |
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Bulk density (lb/cu yd) |
800-1,200 |
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pH |
5.5-9.0 |
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Temperature |
110-150°F or 45-65°C |
Composting - Methods
The method of composting is guided by several considerations:
· Materials
· Vegetative matter from the kitchen or garden, yard waste or imported material like straw and manure can guide your method choice; other considerations weighed. Seasonal available materials may be stored until needed or in proportion for proper mix.
· Time available for management
· Static or turned piles direct the level of management. Management directly influences rate of decomposition.
· Time finished compost is desired
· Purpose of compost may include growing medium, soil improvement or mulch. The purpose also dictates the required quality of finished compost; thus, duration of the process.
· Space available
· Whether piled or confined, composting requires a semi-permanent or permanent space. The quantity of material may guide your space needs and location.
Methods
1. Contained - enclosure or bin to which materials are added as available without turning. Decomposition occurs from six months to two years. Reducing size of material can speed composting process. This is the standard cold composting.
2. Turned - similar to 'contained' but turn regularly. This method is best build with collected materials with no additional materials during decomposition. This hot composting method kills pathogens and seeds while maximizing decomposition efficiency. A finished product can be obtained in as little as two months.
3. Pile - described as a heap which can be added to or assembled with collected materials. Five feet wide by three feet high is best and another pile started. The pile can be turned or left to decompose. Covering with mulch or soil will reduce moisture loss and pests.
4. Incorporation - burial with at least eight inches of coverage by soil can be placed outside the dripline of trees or shrubs, or in unplanted areas of the garden. Avoid fatty waste materials that attract pests.
5. Worm composting - red worms are great processor of food wastes. A bin provides a dark, moist environment; scale based on materials available. Bedding material of cardboard or newsprint aids in moisture control. Add scraps under the bedding and rotate location within the bin; usually, by weight, 50% of worm weight. Feed amount can be adjusted to worm feeding.
6. Mulching - the best mulches for flower and vegetable gardens are non-woody and decompose relatively fast. Lawn clippings, leaves and seaweed are great. Take care that they do not influence pH, like pine needles. Mulch is best reduced in size by chopping or shredding.


